Lessons I’ve Learned From Buddy the Dog – Part 2 – Trust
But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. (Psalm 56:3 NLT)
Last summer we had dramatic thunderstorms two nights in a row here in Central Oregon. They were full-on storms of intense lightning, rolling thunder, strong gusty winds, and torrential rains. It’s good that we were at home during both of those storms, because Buddy the Dog doesn’t do well with the thunder and lightning and the roar of the rain on the roof and the deck.
When there’s a violent, noisy storm Buddy the Dog trembles and pants nervously. He paces the floor, white-eyed and afraid. He is torn between wanting to be near me and wanting to find a dark corner to hide in.
When I put my hand on him I can feel that he is actually trembling! I feel bad for him, because I know that we are safe from this storm and that it will soon pass. The house is solid and even if the storm takes some shingles off the roof, we’ll be fine. There may be some cleanup to do in the yard after it’s over, and I may have to wait to put the rubbish bins out for pickup in the morning until the wind dies down. The power may go out, but the infrastructure in Central Oregon is sound and it will be back soon.
But Buddy the Dog is afraid in the storm. I speak reassuring words to him, but it doesn’t seem to help him very much. It frustrates me that I can’t make him know he’s safe and I’ll protect him. I’m not mad at him, just a little sad that I can’t give him the same peace and confidence I have.
I wonder if Father God ever feels that way about me. When the storms of life blow strong and loud, when major change comes fast and I can’t control the situation, I get afraid too. I know God has promised to take care of me, to provide for Jean and me, to protect us, but I still get anxious. Sometimes I lose sleep, sometimes I complain, sometimes I’m a prayer worrier instead of a prayer warrior! Sometimes I feel like I want to find a place to hide – just like Buddy the Dog.
I know God will take care of me. He promised he will. He has always been faithful. But, like Buddy the Dog, sometimes I get scared in the storm!
Father, I’m sorry if it frustrates you when I get anxious and worried. I know that, like me with Buddy the Dog, you’re not mad at me, you just want me to trust you. I do trust you. I will learn to trust you more. You are a faithful God and your unfailing love is everlasting. Amen.